With International Women’s Day having wrapped up a few weeks ago, along with March being Women’s History Month, we have been given various opportunities to reflect on women’s contributions in both history and today.
This celebration of women in various fields first began in 1978, when the Sonoma County Commission in California established March 8th as International Women’s History Day. This commemoration continued to grow within communities, and by 1980, the day changed to a weeklong celebration after a proclamation from President Jimmy Carter. Continuing to grow, March was finally established as Women’s History Month and is celebrated worldwide.
This recognition of women’s achievements in STEM, politics, art, and sports helps communicate women’s progress in breaking down societal expectations, along with inspiring future generations to reach for their goals. Historical women figures such as Malala Yousafzai and Amelia Earhart help teach that no barrier is too tough to overcome, even with various obstacles such as discrimination.
We see these leaders not only in history but also in our school environment, where the majority of our school’s leaders are female. Our community is often seen as a supportive and inspiring setting with staff and teachers continuously initiating fun events and fundraisers, always striving to improve.
Having such an encouraging environment can be helpful to many students at BSGE. One 7th-grade student finds that many “teachers at Baccalaureate have always shown kindness and are always willing to help out and support their students.” The student explained that having teachers whom they are “comfortable to talk to” has helped boost their confidence.
Many students at BSGE also find that there are a “lot of women staff who deserve more appreciation for their hard work in dealing with our local problems,” according to a 7th-grade student. 10th grader Radu Stoica also agrees, explaining that Principal Dr. Page “has had a significant impact on our community” by continuing to foster access to our school’s resources using her Instagram, the BaccPage.
For many students, women’s history month also signifies their women figures at home. One 10th-grade student shared that they “have always been aware of Women’s History Month since the majority of the family in my household are women.” The student explained how they found it important to take the time to appreciate the role the women played in their life as a role model or even a mentor.
For students in similar situations, March can be an excellent opportunity to recognize the part their female family members have played in encouraging and supporting their aspirations and goals.
Sparking encouragement and inspiration, Women’s History Month is an honorable time to recognize women’s accomplishments in history and in your environment. Appreciating the heights women have reached throughout time has a huge impact on women all around the world and even in your school and home.